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Discoid lupus on the scalp can be uncomfortable, especially when it’s itchy, flaky, and painful. MyLupusTeam members frequently discuss the challenges of searching for the best shampoo for their lupus. One shared difficulty involves the frustration of trying different shampoos with no guarantee of success, since what works for one person might not work for another. Additionally, it can be tough to navigate the wide range of shampoos to find a product that’s gentle, effective, and appropriate for managing discoid lupus on the scalp.
“My problem that is driving me insane is flaky, itchy scalp and skin. I noticed I also have a sorelike itch on the lower part of the back of my head. I have a tea tree oil shampoo and use a lavender shower gel, which feels great for about an hour, and then my head starts itching,” one MyLupusTeam member wrote.
Read on to learn more about how discoid lupus affects your hair and get tips on finding the best shampoo to help keep your hair healthy.
Discoid lupus — also known as discoid lupus erythematosus — is the most common type of cutaneous (skin) lupus and affects the skin and scalp. Discoid lupus is characterized by skin lesions (sores or rashes) that are thick, scaly, circular, and about the size of a coin. Around two-thirds of people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) — the most common type of lupus — have cutaneous lupus symptoms. Among MyLupusTeam members, 80 percent have reported rashes that sometimes affect the scalp.
Like other types of lupus, discoid lupus is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue. Complications from discoid lupus include thinning hair, alopecia (hair loss), and scarring that can block hair follicles, as well as an increased risk of skin cancer. Although discoid lupus isn’t typically associated with itching or pain, lupus-affected skin and scalp can be itchy or painful, and many people with discoid lupus report these symptoms.
As one member wrote, “Burning all over. Itching all over my face, scalp, and ears. I have discoid lupus.”
It’s important to talk with your doctor about your discoid lupus symptoms. Your health care provider can help you find an appropriate treatment plan for your condition. Based on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend medications.
Medications commonly prescribed for discoid lupus include:
Studies have shown that medications help reduce symptoms in around 60 percent of people living with cutaneous lupus. In addition to following your doctor-prescribed treatment plan, finding the right shampoo for lupus scalp may also help relieve some of your discoid lupus symptoms.
When trying to manage scalp symptoms of discoid lupus, you may wonder, “What is the best shampoo for lupus hair?” If you’re curious about how best to take care of your hair when living with lupus, the answer is: It’s complicated.
Each case of lupus, including discoid lupus, is unique and, like other autoimmune diseases, can affect individuals differently. A shampoo that works for one person may not be effective for someone else. It’s important to find the best shampoo for your particular condition.
If lupus affects your scalp, here are five tips to help you find the right shampoo.
Due to the risk of hair loss with discoid lupus, the Lupus Foundation of America recommends using very mild shampoos and hair products, such as baby shampoo.
One MyLupusTeam member shared their experience: “I have also lost a lot of hair. It has been going on for quite a while but seems to be leveling off some. I use Nioxin shampoo and conditioner and switch off with baby shampoo and a spray leave-in conditioner.”
Shampooing less frequently may reduce some symptoms. “I do not shampoo every day either. I always rinse my hair in the shower to wet and style, but I don’t shampoo daily,” another member said.
Treating your scalp with care also means avoiding harsh chemicals in shampoos and chemical hair treatments that may irritate or worsen lesions on your scalp. For instance, hair dye and fragrances have been linked to lupus flare-ups and increased disease activity.
Even shampoo ingredients listed as “natural fragrances” may contain chemicals that can irritate your scalp and skin. Make it a habit to check shampoo ingredients and discuss any unfamiliar ones with your rheumatologist or dermatologist. For example, one of the most irritating ingredients found in many shampoos and cleansers is sodium lauryl sulfate. Shampoos free of this ingredient may be a little less irritating. It’s always a good idea to read product labels.
If you have concerns about sodium lauryl sulfate or any other ingredient, check with a dermatologist or test it by applying a bit to the same small spot of skin twice a day for seven to 10 days. If your skin doesn’t become discolored, itchy, or swollen, the product is likely safe to use.
“Try to stay away from chemicals, perms, relaxers, bleach, developer, and harsh cleansers as found in a lot of shampoos, etc.,” a MyLupusTeam member suggested.
Another member had this advice: “The itching is a real issue. I’ve learned to stay away from sulfa (sulfate)-containing products. One line of products that works for me that has really helped is CeraVe. No sulfates or parabens. It is available at Walgreens.”
Some people find that shampoos with natural substances, such as coconut oil or aloe vera gel, can help soothe the scalp. Natural therapies are sometimes called complementary therapies because they complement standard medical treatment plans.
“I have started to use Philip Kingsley Flaky Itchy Scalp Shampoo, and it seems to work,” a MyLupusTeam member wrote. “It has aloe in it because it is a complementary therapy shampoo. Other shampoos like Head & Shoulders and Tresemme do not seem to work for my scalp.”
Before using a new shampoo or hair product, test it on a small area of affected scalp to see if you have a reaction. Testing may not indicate how well a shampoo works over time to relieve lupus symptoms, but it can help you to determine if it worsens any.
Let your doctor know if you’re having trouble controlling scalp symptoms from discoid lupus. Your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist if you don’t already see one. A dermatologist may be able to recommend a shampoo or offer advice about products to avoid. Your doctor might also advise you to try a prescription shampoo or an ointment or lotion for your scalp.
Scalp symptoms can result from medication side effects or other types of cutaneous lupus that trigger an inflammatory reaction. Your doctor may suggest tests to determine if anything other than discoid lupus is causing your symptoms.
There’s no clear evidence that dietary supplements can promote hair growth. Be sure to discuss any supplements with your doctor before taking them. Some supplements can interact poorly with medications and may have other side effects.
Managing discoid lupus on the scalp requires finding the right shampoo to ease symptoms such as itchiness, flaky scalp, and pain. Following these five tips can help improve your chances of finding the best shampoo for your needs. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free shampoos that don’t contain harsh chemicals. With the right shampoo and proper care, you can relieve symptoms and maintain a healthier scalp.
MyLupusTeam is the social network for people with lupus and their loved ones. On MyLupusTeam, more than 234,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with lupus.
Have you found a shampoo that soothes your discoid lupus symptoms? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.
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A MyLupusTeam Member
A member shared that he used a shampoo called "Folicure" for his hair loss. I've used it for several months now and the itching has eased, and the hair loss too. It's available on Amazon.